By Obiabin Onukwugha
The United Nations has called for more international support for the people of Mozambique, saying that many residents were racing shelter problems.
The body noted that there is severe overcrowding in temporary accommodation shelters hosting an estimated 100,000 people displaced by the flooding in Mozambique
The flooding in Mozambique which started since October las.years has claimed nearly 140 lives, according to the National Disasters Management Institute, while nearly 400,000 people have had to flee their homes.
The United Nations High Commission for Refugeees, UNHCR, said in a statemen at the weekend that many sites, particularly in remote areas, lack adequate privacy, lighting and basic services, creating dangerous conditions for the most vulnerable.
“An estimated 100,000 people are now sheltering in around 100 temporary accommodation centres, including schools and public buildings. Overcrowding in these centres is severe,” the body stated.
The UNHCR lamented that women and girls were facing a heightened risk of violence, sexual exploitation and abuse, even as many were distressed and needed support.
It stated that old people and those with disabilities also struggle to get to help at sites not designed to meet their needs.
The body stated that many more remain stranded in the worst-affected areas, with access roads still under water and bridges washed away.
The UNHCR further stated that the crisis underscores Mozambique’s vulnerability. It pointed out that with continued rainfall forecast and flood risks remaining high, further displacement is possible.
While noting that UNHCR Mozambique is seeking $38.2 million in 2026, the body emphasised that urgent international support is critical to scale up life-saving assistance and protection services.
Africanews quoted thenWorld Food Programme as saying that it urgently needs $32 million for the next three months’ operations, saying it was stepping up efforts to reach more than 450,000 people.
With roads badly damaged, the WFP said it was using amphibious vehicles, boats, heavy-duty trucks, fixed-wing aircraft, and helicopters to try to reach communities hit by the floods.
